Arthur F. McGuire, 48, of Ironton, died suddenly Jan. 24, 2011, while visiting his family in New York City.

He was born on June 18, 1962, to the late Arthur A. McGuire and Benedetta Valenti McGuire who survives in New York City.

He is also survived by his wife, Peggy; daughters, Meghan and Stevy; one sister, Karen McGuire and nephew Taylor McGuire of Orlando, Fla.

Artie, a life-long New Yorker moved to Ironton in 1994. Many will remember Artie’s initial months in Ironton with a smile. He quickly learned that the ideals he possessed of how a community ought to be were manifest in Ironton and set out to make his home there. Artie made many friends in Southeast Ohio whom he could truly call “friend” and remarked often about how full his life was because he was a part of the Ironton community.

A memorial service and Mass in Artie’s honor will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church. It is for anyone who would like to celebrate his life and share a story about their relationship with Artie. A reception will follow at the Knights Of Columbus 2101 South Third St., Ironton after the service.

Artie was an unconventional man who had a huge spirit and touched many lives. He is deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. Local arrangements are under the direction of O’Keefe-Baker Funeral Home.